Top 10 Famous Temples in Madhya Pradesh to Visit
Madhya Pradesh, often referred to as the heart of India, boasts a rich cultural heritage and is home to some of the most revered temples in the country. Discover the essence of devotion in these sacred sites, from architectural marvels to serene sanctuaries.
Uncover the spiritual treasures of Madhya Pradesh with our guide to the top 10 famous temples in the region.
List of Temples in Madhya Pradesh
10 Best Temples to Visit in Madhya Pradesh
Explore the list of 10 famous temples in Madhya Pradesh that embody the state's cultural heritage and religious fervour; here are those 10 temples:
1. Khajuraho Temple | Chhatrapur
Renowned for their exquisite architectural details and intricate sculptures, the Khajuraho Temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These temples depict various Hindu and Jain mythology aspects, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and artistic finesse.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Timings: Open daily from 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM.
- How to Reach: Khajuraho is well-connected by air, rail, and road.
- Nearby Railway Station: Khajuraho Railway Station.
- Nearby Airport: Khajuraho Airport.
- Nearby Bus Station: Khajuraho Bus Stand.
2. Mahakaleshwar Temple | Ujjain
The Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India dedicated to Lord Shiva. This ancient temple, glorified by various Purans, holds immense spiritual significance and attracts devotees from far and wide.
- Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year.
- Timings: Open daily from 3:00 AM - 11:00 PM.
- How to Reach: Ujjain is well-connected by air, rail, and road.
- Nearby Railway Station: Ujjain Railway Station.
- Nearby Airport: Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport, Indore.
- Nearby Bus Station: Ujjain Bus Stand.
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3. Omkareshwar Temple | Mandhata, Omkareshwar
The Omkareshwar Temple, nestled on the island of Omkareshwar in the Narmada River, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Surrounded by serene natural beauty, this temple offers a tranquil atmosphere for meditation and devotion.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Timings: Open daily from 5:00 AM - 9:30 PM.
- How to Reach: Omkareshwar is accessible by road from Indore and Khandwa.
- Nearby Railway Station: Omkareshwar Road (Mortakka) Railway Station.
- Nearby Airport: Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport, Indore.
- Nearby Bus Station: Omkareshwar Bus Stand.
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4. Chausath Yogini Temple | Bhedaghat
Perched atop a hill in Bhedaghat, Jabalpur, the Chausath Yogini Temple is an ancient shrine dedicated to Goddess Durga. Its unique circular layout and commanding views of the surrounding landscape offer a mesmerising spiritual experience.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February.
- Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
- How to Reach: Bhedaghat is accessible by road from Jabalpur city.
- Nearby Railway Station: Jabalpur Railway Station.
- Nearby Airport: Dumna Airport, Jabalpur.
- Nearby Bus Station: Jabalpur Bus Stand.
5. Shree Bada Ganpati Mandir | Indore
Located in Indore, the Bada Ganpati Temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and a harbinger of good fortune, and is famous for its enormous statue of the deity. It is a popular pilgrimage site, especially during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival.
- Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year.
- Timings: Open daily for 24 hours.
- How to Reach: Indore is well-connected by air, rail, and road.
- Nearby Railway Station: Indore Junction.
- Nearby Airport: Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport, Indore.
- Nearby Bus Station: Indore Bus Stand.
6. Shree Kal Bhairav Temple | Ujjain
Situated in Ujjain, the Shree Kal Bhairav Temple is dedicated to Lord Bhairav, a fierce form of Lord Shiva. Devotees offer liquor as prasad to the deity as a form of worship, which has gained attention recently, and the temple is known for its vibrant atmosphere.
- Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year.
- Timings: Open daily from 5:00 AM - 9:30 PM.
- How to Reach: Ujjain is well-connected by air, rail, and road.
- Nearby Railway Station: Ujjain Railway Station.
- Nearby Airport: Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport, Indore.
- Nearby Bus Station: Ujjain Bus Stand.
7. Kandariya Mahadeva Temple | Khajuraho
Located in Khajuraho, the Kandariya Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned for its intricate sculptures depicting various aspects of Hindu mythology. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM.
- How to Reach: Khajuraho is well-connected by air, rail, and road.
- Nearby Railway Station: Khajuraho Railway Station.
- Nearby Airport: Khajuraho Airport.
- Nearby Bus Station: Khajuraho Bus Stand.
8. Salkanpur Temple | Salkanpur
Perched atop an 800-foot high hilltop in Salkanpur, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is believed to fulfil the wishes of devotees. The serene surroundings and panoramic views make it a popular pilgrimage destination.
- Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year.
- Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM.
- How to Reach: Salkanpur is accessible by road from Indore.
- Nearby Railway Station: Indore Junction.
- Nearby Airport: Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport, Indore.
- Nearby Bus Station: Indore Bus Stand.
9. Bhojeshwar Temple | Bhojpur
Situated in Bhojpur, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned for its unfinished lingam, which is believed to be one of the largest in India. The intricate carvings and architectural grandeur make it a must-visit for history buffs.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM.
- How to Reach: Bhojpur is accessible by road from Bhopal.
- Nearby Railway Station: Bhopal Junction.
- Nearby Airport: Raja Bhoj Airport, Bhopal.
- Nearby Bus Station: Bhopal Bus Stand.
10. Jatashankar Temple | Pachmarhi
Situated in Pachmarhi, the Jatashankar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Jata means hair, and Shankar is another name of Lord Shiva. Surrounded by lush greenery and a tranquil atmosphere, it offers a serene setting for devotees to seek blessings and solace.
- Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year.
- Timings: Open daily from 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM.
- How to Reach: Pachmarhi is accessible by road from Bhopal and Jabalpur.
- Nearby Railway Station: Pipariya Railway Station.
- Nearby Airport: Raja Bhoj Airport, Bhopal.
- Nearby Bus Station: Pachmarhi Bus Stand.
Experience the divine essence and architectural marvels of Madhya Pradesh's famous temples. Whether seeking spiritual solace or marvelling at ancient craftsmanship, these sacred sites offer a profound journey into India's cultural heritage.
FAQs about Temples to Visit in Madhya Pradesh, India
Are there restroom facilities available near the Jatashankar Temple in Pachmarhi?
Yes, restroom facilities are available near the Jatashankar Temple in Pachmarhi.
Are there accommodations available near the Omkareshwar Temple?
Yes, there are various accommodation options available near the Omkareshwar Temple. You can find hotels, guesthouses, and Dharamshalas in Omkareshwar town to suit different budgets and preferences.
Are there any entry fees to visit the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain?
No, there are no entry fees to visit the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain.
Which God is famous in Madhya Pradesh?
Lord Shiva is one of the most famous deities in Madhya Pradesh, with temples like Mahakaleshwar and Omkareshwar drawing devotees.
What is Khajuraho Temple famous for?
The Khajuraho temples are famous for their intricate erotic sculptures and stunning mediaeval architecture.
Which city is known as the City of Temples in Madhya Pradesh?
Ujjain is often referred to as the "City of Temples" in Madhya Pradesh due to its plethora of ancient and sacred temples, including the famous Mahakaleshwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Which is the largest mandir in Madhya Pradesh?
The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, known for its intricate sculptures and architectural beauty is one of the largest and most ornately decorated temples among the Khajuraho Group of Monuments.
Which Jyotirlinga is in Madhya Pradessh?
There are two Jyotirlingas in Madhya Pradesh: Mahakaleshwar in Ujjain district and Omkareshwar in Khandwa district.
Which temple to visit first in Madhya Pradesh?
The Mahakaleshwar Temple is typically recommended as the first temple to visit due to its immense religious significance as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and its importance in Hindu mythology.
Which is the highest shivling in Madhya Pradesh?
The Bhojeshwar Temple in Bhojpur, Madhya Pradesh, features one of the tallest shivlings in India, standing around 7.5 feet tall.
How many temples are there in Madhya Pradesh?
In Madhya Pradesh, it's estimated that there are thousands of temples across the state.
What is Madhya Pradesh famous for?
Madhya Pradesh is famous for its rich cultural heritage, historical monuments like Khajuraho and Sanchi Stupa, temples, wildlife sanctuaries, handicrafts, and vibrant festivals.
Which pooja is Madhya Pradesh famous for?
The Kaal Sarp Dosh Puja is a Hindu ritual aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of planetary alignment believed to cause obstacles in life.
How much is VIP darshan in Madhya Pradesh?
The cost of VIP darshan in Madhya Pradesh temples can range from a few hundred rupees to several thousand rupees per person, depending on the temple and the level of VIP services provided.